Dry, itchy and red eyes are no fun. You may be too familiar with these uncomfortable symptoms if you suffer from allergies. Allergies can wreak havoc with your eyes, triggering a condition known as dry eye—when your eyes can’t produce enough tears or the right quality to stay adequately moistened. You read that correctly: allergies and dry eyes are more interconnected than you might think. Let’s learn more about it in today’s post.
Pollen, dust mites, pet dander or certain foods, can trigger an allergic reaction. For many people, this includes symptoms in the eyes. When your immune system reacts to an allergen, it releases histamines that cause inflammation. This inflammation can lead to symptoms like itching, redness and dry eyes.
Unlike typical dry eyes that may cause a stinging or burning sensation, allergy-related dry eyes can often be accompanied by itching and discomfort. Other symptoms include blurred vision and sensitivity to light. Detecting allergy-related dry eye can be tricky as the symptoms frequently overlap with other ocular conditions. That’s why it’s crucial to consult an eye doctor.
Treatment options for allergy-related dry eye often aim at managing allergies and alleviating dry eye symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe antihistamines or anti-inflammatory eye drops to combat the effects of histamines and reduce inflammation. In some cases, you may also be recommended for allergy shots, known as immunotherapy.
Allergies and dry eyes share a surprisingly strong bond. But with the proper knowledge and proactive eye care, you can effectively manage allergy-related dry eyes. Get in touch with Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry to receive the best eye care you need. Call us at any of the following numbers: Alexandria: (703) 660-9494, Arlington (Crystal City): (703) 413-1400, Arlington (Clarendon): (703) 522-7676, Falls Church: (703) 573-1200, Reston: (703) 467-9080. You may also visit our contact page and fill out our form to schedule an appointment.